Do I need permission to fly a drone in New Zealand?

The permissions you need to fly your drone in New Zealand depend on how and where you want to fly.

Airspace

• Stay 4kms away from all airports and helipads – unless you have clearance from the aerodrome operator.
• Check for any airspace restrictions before you fly.
• You may be able to fly in controlled airspace by obtaining air traffic control clearance from Airways.
• Do not fly in special use airspace without the permission of the administering authority of the area (eg, military operating areas or restricted areas).
  
  Check airspace - AirShare website(external link)

People and property

• It's safer not to fly over people. If you need to, only fly above people if you have asked for their consent.
• Get consent of the property owner or person in charge of the land you want to fly over.
• Check with your local council before flying in public places like parks and reserves. Your regional council’s website will have information about drone use in your area.
• You must apply for a permit from the Department of Conservation to fly over conservation land.
  
  Drone use on conservation land(external link)
  

Learn more about the rules - Intro to Part 101 rules for unmanned aircraft